Feminism has an array of meanings, and while we may argue the semantics of the meaning of feminism, one element does not change: the need to actively participate in our community.   There is an activism that is necessary in feminism because behind all of our arguments there are really people in this world right now suffering.  While our words are important because they work to frame the conversation and push for change in our social consciousness, there are flesh and blood people that need help in a different way.  This is why activism in the feminist community is so vital.  We each find our own way to contribute to the community, in which ever way we can.

My husband and I volunteer as much as we can and also support local charities.  This past weekend we had the opportunity to attend a charity event supporting Laura’s House.  Laura’s House is a shelter for victims of domestic violence located in south Orange County.  The shelter was created by a few local Orange County women who were touched and saddened by the story of another local woman, Laura, who had no place to seek help when her home life turned violent.  Nearly 20 years later, Laura’s House is a flourishing facility, with emergency services as well as education, intervention and support services for rebuilding lives.

For me, what is so inspiring about Laura’s House is that a group of women saw a need in their community and they found a way to fill that need.  Inspired and motivated by these few women the community came together, donated time and money and this wonderful organization was created.

Its not about being super-women or super-man or super-(fill in the preconceived notion of alleged greatness that consumerism has constructed to stalk you), its about being thankful for what we have and giving as much back to our community as we can.